Many people have a lot of misconceptions about writers and the process of writing. One of them is that in order to write, you have to be in the mood and that successful writers feel wildly enthusiastic and inspired every time they sit down to write.
In fact, just the opposite is true for most writers.
As author Joyce Carole Oates said, “one must be pitiless about this matter of mood. In a sense, writing will create the mood. Generally I’ve found this to be true.
I have forced myself to begin writing when I’ve been utterly exhausted, when I’ve felt my soul as thin as a playing card, when nothing has seemed worth enduring for another five minutes… and somehow the activity of writing changes everything.”
After a busy day at the office or a frantic week, people often don’t feel like writing at home or when they come to class. But when they do, they’re so glad they did. You can see it in their faces. There’s no feeling like having written.
But it is a discipline, like anything worthwhile. And the more you write, the better, more inspired and grateful you become. So when you’re at home, don’t wait until you feel like writing. Just do it.
The act of writing from your imagination will bring your writing to life and nourish your spirit, making you feel connected to something greater than yourself.
Anne Lamott, author of a great book on writing, Bird By Bird, puts it beautifully.
“I encourage anyone, who feels at all compelled to write to do so. Writing has so much to give, so much to teach, so many surprises.
The thing you had to force yourself to do – the actual writing – turns out to be the best part. It’s like discovering that while you thought you needed the tea ceremony for the caffeine, what you really needed was the tea ceremony. The act of writing turns out to be its own reward.”
Roland Fishman created The Writers’ Studio in 1992. The Writers’ Studio runs live courses at their studio in Bronte, Sydney and online courses for all locations. Visit www.writerstudio.com.au for course information.
